Polaris Bank has reinforced its support for Nigeria’s non-oil export sector through active participation in the NAHCO and NACCIMA Export Group Programme, a strategic initiative aimed at empowering micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises in international trade.
The bank demonstrated its commitment at the one-day programme titled “Breaking Barriers: Helping SMEs Navigate Export Procedures for Agro Products and Other Commodities,” which convened regulators, exporters, industry stakeholders, and trade organizations to develop practical solutions for reducing trade barriers and improving financial access.
The event featured the official launch of the NACCIMA Export Group and the NAHCO Export Support Centre for MSMEs, establishing a comprehensive platform that provides exporters with trade facilitation services, logistics support, regulatory guidance, and financial solutions throughout the export value chain.
Chris Ofikulu, Executive Director at Polaris Bank, emphasized the critical importance of diversifying Nigeria’s economy beyond oil revenues. He explained that achieving economic resilience requires coordinated efforts between public and private sectors to strengthen non-oil exports, particularly in agriculture and commodity trading.
“Expanding non-oil exports is not optional; it is a strategic imperative for building a resilient, inclusive, and competitive Nigerian economy. SMEs, particularly in agro-exports and commodity trade, hold the key to unlocking our true comparative advantage. Polaris Bank remains committed to providing the finance, advisory support, and partnerships required to help them scale confidently and compete globally,” Ofikulu stated.
The programme addressed key challenges facing Nigerian exporters, including infrastructure deficiencies, port inefficiencies, logistics obstacles, certification requirements, and policy inconsistencies. Participants called for enhanced collaboration among government agencies, trade bodies, financial institutions, and logistics providers to streamline export procedures and expand market access for SMEs.
Olaleye Arinola, Team Lead for Trade Services at Polaris Bank, stressed the necessity of eliminating trade and payment obstacles that hinder exporter competitiveness and cash flow management. He outlined the bank’s approach to building confidence in the export process through targeted financial and advisory interventions.
“Exports cannot grow if finance and payments remain obstacles. At Polaris Bank, our focus is on removing friction from international trade by ensuring SMEs get paid faster, safer, and with greater certainty through efficient trade finance, secure cross-border payments, and hands-on guidance across documentation, FX, and compliance,” Arinola explained.
As part of its support for the business community, Polaris Bank introduced a Dedicated Help Desk for NACCIMA members, offering direct access to trade finance and payment support, expedited resolution of export-related inquiries, and customized advisory services on foreign exchange documentation and regulatory compliance.
The bank reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with NAHCO, NACCIMA, and other stakeholders to strengthen exporter capabilities, promote value addition in agro-exports and commodities, and create sustainable growth opportunities for Nigerian businesses in regional and global markets.
As Nigeria pursues economic diversification, Polaris Bank continues to position itself as a strategic partner for MSME exporters, delivering the financial resources, expertise, and institutional support necessary for global competitiveness and meaningful contribution to national economic development.
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